Above: Stock Image
A lethal force encounter recently took place at a gas station located at 13660 Bear Valley Road in Victorville, California, on Friday, December 1, 2023. The incident involved a 27-year-old male, identified as Jorge Cardenas, a resident of Ontario, and a San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Sergeant.
Sheriff’s Dispatch received a report of a man with a gun at the aforementioned gas station. The caller, who identified herself as the suspect’s girlfriend, reported that Cardenas had a firearm and had locked herself inside the bathroom of the business.
Upon receiving the report, a sheriff’s sergeant promptly responded to the scene. The sgt. approached Cardenas, who was located just outside the business premises, and attempted to detain him. However, the situation took a dangerous turn when Cardenas fled into the store, turned, and pointed a gun at the approaching sergeant.
A lethal force encounter ensued, resulting in both the suspect and the sergeant sustaining gunshot wounds. Tragically, Jorge Cardenas was pronounced deceased at the scene, while the injured sergeant was immediately transported to a nearby trauma center. Fortunately, the sergeant is reported to be in stable condition.
Detectives from the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division have taken charge of the ongoing investigation into this incident.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to come forward and contact Detective Justin Applegate of the Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers have the option to remain anonymous and can also provide information through We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s-Coroner Department has identified this case as DR# 172313450 / H#2023-128 and will continue its investigation to ascertain further details.
We will continue to provide updates on this incident as more information becomes available.
